'09 Speedmaster Won't Start...
- Thread starter Brad
- Start date
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Brad, call me if you need help.
Thanks Carl!
Ride Now (the dealership where I bought it) is coming to pick it up tomorrow. Granted, I won't have the bike over the Christmas holiday, but I'm scheduled for Lasik this Sat morning, and it's probably for the best.
So if I don't write another word until the problem is resolved, Merry Christmas everyone! :y18:
Brad
Ride Now (the dealership where I bought it) is coming to pick it up tomorrow. Granted, I won't have the bike over the Christmas holiday, but I'm scheduled for Lasik this Sat morning, and it's probably for the best.
So if I don't write another word until the problem is resolved, Merry Christmas everyone! :y18:
Brad
Keep in mind that if you have future problems, I have a pickup and a trailer. I know yours is under warranty at this time; but don't hesitate to ask if you need help.
I wish you the very best with the Lasik. I would offer to drive you to the Lasik center; but I will be at Eglin AFB and in Crestview for a KIA funeral.
I wish you the very best with the Lasik. I would offer to drive you to the Lasik center; but I will be at Eglin AFB and in Crestview for a KIA funeral.
i was going to say the same thing about the terminals because the symptoms you described are exactly what happens when the battery is even slightly low to mine. That would indicate a loose terminal if the battery itself wasn't low. I have left my key on more times than i wish to admit, and the symptoms are exactly as you described. I have had to push start mine many times due to this stupidity on my part !
I've got a partial update that was delayed by a recent Lasik procedure, given the difficulty of seeing a computer screen after having a laser aimed at ones eyes.
The dealer had his top mechanic diagnose the problem, and he determined it has something to do with the wiring harness and/or an ignition system relay related to the headlights. They claim it will start fine within 20 attempts, and that it will start perfectly every time if the relay is bypassed. Given how strong the starts are when it does start, I was reluctant to believe the battery was the problem.
Diagnosing it was one thing, getting it repaired another. They're going to contact Triumph today and see about getting a new wiring harness. I'll save you the rant I asked the dealer to share with Triumph about being the new owner of a bike that is requiring me to make payments, cover insurance, has had problems from its inception, and is now enjoying a lengthy stay at the shop. Someone (not on this forum) recently told me Triumphs are notorious for having electrical problems, and I genuinely hope he's wrong to think this is going to continue to be an ongoing issue.
I'll update the progress when I hear more,
Brad
(And should you wonder, Lasik—aside from the procedure itself—is awesome. It's great to see!!!)
The dealer had his top mechanic diagnose the problem, and he determined it has something to do with the wiring harness and/or an ignition system relay related to the headlights. They claim it will start fine within 20 attempts, and that it will start perfectly every time if the relay is bypassed. Given how strong the starts are when it does start, I was reluctant to believe the battery was the problem.
Diagnosing it was one thing, getting it repaired another. They're going to contact Triumph today and see about getting a new wiring harness. I'll save you the rant I asked the dealer to share with Triumph about being the new owner of a bike that is requiring me to make payments, cover insurance, has had problems from its inception, and is now enjoying a lengthy stay at the shop. Someone (not on this forum) recently told me Triumphs are notorious for having electrical problems, and I genuinely hope he's wrong to think this is going to continue to be an ongoing issue.
I'll update the progress when I hear more,
Brad
(And should you wonder, Lasik—aside from the procedure itself—is awesome. It's great to see!!!)
stevethelondoner
Well-Known Member
[quote author=Brad link=topic=2956.msg20990#msg20990 date=1230906691]
I've got a partial update that was delayed by a recent Lasik procedure, given the difficulty of seeing a computer screen after having a laser aimed at ones eyes.
The dealer had his top mechanic diagnose the problem, and he determined it has something to do with the wiring harness and/or an ignition system relay related to the headlights. They claim it will start fine within 20 attempts, and that it will start perfectly every time if the relay is bypassed. Given how strong the starts are when it does start, I was reluctant to believe the battery was the problem.
Diagnosing it was one thing, getting it repaired another. They're going to contact Triumph today and see about getting a new wiring harness. I'll save you the rant I asked the dealer to share with Triumph about being the new owner of a bike that is requiring me to make payments, cover insurance, has had problems from its inception, and is now enjoying a lengthy stay at the shop. Someone (not on this forum) recently told me Triumphs are notorious for having electrical problems, and I genuinely hope he's wrong to think this is going to continue to be an ongoing issue.
I'll update the progress when I hear more,
Brad
(And should you wonder, Lasikaside from the procedure itselfis awesome. It's great to see!!!)
[/quote]
Glad the Lasik went well mate but sorry about the bike issue. heck if ya run it over to Carls I will run over as well and between the 3 of us we must be able to work it out. Dont wanna mess up ya warranty though. Hope it works out mate....let us know.
Ride Safe mate
I've got a partial update that was delayed by a recent Lasik procedure, given the difficulty of seeing a computer screen after having a laser aimed at ones eyes.
The dealer had his top mechanic diagnose the problem, and he determined it has something to do with the wiring harness and/or an ignition system relay related to the headlights. They claim it will start fine within 20 attempts, and that it will start perfectly every time if the relay is bypassed. Given how strong the starts are when it does start, I was reluctant to believe the battery was the problem.
Diagnosing it was one thing, getting it repaired another. They're going to contact Triumph today and see about getting a new wiring harness. I'll save you the rant I asked the dealer to share with Triumph about being the new owner of a bike that is requiring me to make payments, cover insurance, has had problems from its inception, and is now enjoying a lengthy stay at the shop. Someone (not on this forum) recently told me Triumphs are notorious for having electrical problems, and I genuinely hope he's wrong to think this is going to continue to be an ongoing issue.
I'll update the progress when I hear more,
Brad
(And should you wonder, Lasikaside from the procedure itselfis awesome. It's great to see!!!)
[/quote]
Glad the Lasik went well mate but sorry about the bike issue. heck if ya run it over to Carls I will run over as well and between the 3 of us we must be able to work it out. Dont wanna mess up ya warranty though. Hope it works out mate....let us know.
Ride Safe mate
Brad, I'm glad to learn the Lasik went well and is behind you. That is good news.
Triumphs were notorious for electrical problems - Meridan Triumphs back in "the day". The modern Hinckley Triumphs do not have a reputation for electrical problems. Todays electrical systems have more relays, safety switches, etc by far than bikes did thirty years ago and they have far fewer problems than bikes did thirty years ago. The old Lucas electrics of the classic Triumph era were notorious for problems - and that extended to British cars: MG's Jags, etc. Having owned both of these brands in the 70's, I can personally vouch for that. Todays Triumphs have no more electrical problems than other brands and less than some.
That said, the modern electrical systems are complicate and time consuming to diagnose when something does go wrong be it a Triumph, a BMW, or a Cadillac. All of the lighting and the ignition switch wiring on Triumph Bonneville family run through the headlight shell. Because of the "lights on" when the key is on mandate, the lights are tied to the ignition switch. All of this complicates tracing a wiring problem. I have 30 K miles on my Bonnie and Mae Lyne has 21K on hers. Both bikes have been parked outside, ridden in driving rain multiple times and washed frequently. Neither bike has had an electrical problem except for me pinching a wire in mine causing it to ground. The only thing I have done electrically is replace headlight bulbs twice in each bike.
Known electrical problems (and very infrequent) for the Bonnie family are the kickstand and neutral switches. the pick up sensor coil, and moisture getting in the connectors. I had moisture get in a connection in a rain storm one time causing the bike to start missing. As I slowed down and pulled over, the engine heat dried it out and it ran fine. Dielectric grease has negated a repeat performance.
I regret that you got a bike with an electrical problem. It is frustrating and a big inconvenience when a brand new bike or automobile has a problem. The upside is that it will be fixed under warranty and when it is fixed properly, you wlil have no more problems of that nature.
Please keep us posted on what they do.
Triumphs were notorious for electrical problems - Meridan Triumphs back in "the day". The modern Hinckley Triumphs do not have a reputation for electrical problems. Todays electrical systems have more relays, safety switches, etc by far than bikes did thirty years ago and they have far fewer problems than bikes did thirty years ago. The old Lucas electrics of the classic Triumph era were notorious for problems - and that extended to British cars: MG's Jags, etc. Having owned both of these brands in the 70's, I can personally vouch for that. Todays Triumphs have no more electrical problems than other brands and less than some.
That said, the modern electrical systems are complicate and time consuming to diagnose when something does go wrong be it a Triumph, a BMW, or a Cadillac. All of the lighting and the ignition switch wiring on Triumph Bonneville family run through the headlight shell. Because of the "lights on" when the key is on mandate, the lights are tied to the ignition switch. All of this complicates tracing a wiring problem. I have 30 K miles on my Bonnie and Mae Lyne has 21K on hers. Both bikes have been parked outside, ridden in driving rain multiple times and washed frequently. Neither bike has had an electrical problem except for me pinching a wire in mine causing it to ground. The only thing I have done electrically is replace headlight bulbs twice in each bike.
Known electrical problems (and very infrequent) for the Bonnie family are the kickstand and neutral switches. the pick up sensor coil, and moisture getting in the connectors. I had moisture get in a connection in a rain storm one time causing the bike to start missing. As I slowed down and pulled over, the engine heat dried it out and it ran fine. Dielectric grease has negated a repeat performance.
I regret that you got a bike with an electrical problem. It is frustrating and a big inconvenience when a brand new bike or automobile has a problem. The upside is that it will be fixed under warranty and when it is fixed properly, you wlil have no more problems of that nature.
Please keep us posted on what they do.
Carl,
Thanks for the encouraging words about the newer Triumphs! I'm still impressed by how nice the bike looks (from what I remember, given it's been in the shop for so long); I just hope reliability ceases being a problem. I can't believe how wonderful our weather has been, and how frustrating it's been not having the bike to ride.
But alias, I've got my health, my eyes are good, and I've got a job...so the complaining stops here (baring more Speedmaster problems). I'll update you on the dealership's/Triumph's response to the problem when I know more. And should you (and/or Steve) want to meet and grab a beer in the Altamonte area sometime this week (Tuesday,Wednesday?), I'm prohibitted from returning to the gym until the weekend (post Lasik requirements) and have a freer schedule than normal.
Hope everyone's having an awesome New Year!
Brad
Thanks for the encouraging words about the newer Triumphs! I'm still impressed by how nice the bike looks (from what I remember, given it's been in the shop for so long); I just hope reliability ceases being a problem. I can't believe how wonderful our weather has been, and how frustrating it's been not having the bike to ride.
But alias, I've got my health, my eyes are good, and I've got a job...so the complaining stops here (baring more Speedmaster problems). I'll update you on the dealership's/Triumph's response to the problem when I know more. And should you (and/or Steve) want to meet and grab a beer in the Altamonte area sometime this week (Tuesday,Wednesday?), I'm prohibitted from returning to the gym until the weekend (post Lasik requirements) and have a freer schedule than normal.
Hope everyone's having an awesome New Year!
Brad
Brad,
I dont know if its any consolation to you, but I bought my 04 speedy 20 months ago with 11000k on her, and now with 22000k on her, she has never played up once, and I mean not even a hint of trouble. So I dont believe they are plagued with problems, and you must have just got dammed unlucky.
If your dealer cant sort it out to your satisfaction, tell them about the lemon law and ask for a new one.
Any way, I hope it works out for you cos I'm telling you, once sorted,you will love it.
:y18:
I dont know if its any consolation to you, but I bought my 04 speedy 20 months ago with 11000k on her, and now with 22000k on her, she has never played up once, and I mean not even a hint of trouble. So I dont believe they are plagued with problems, and you must have just got dammed unlucky.
If your dealer cant sort it out to your satisfaction, tell them about the lemon law and ask for a new one.
Any way, I hope it works out for you cos I'm telling you, once sorted,you will love it.
:y18:
So I just contacted Triumph (Atlanta Office) a few minutes ago, and they told me the dealership has yet to contact them about the problem, despite promissing me they would do it first thing yesterday when Triumph returned from the holidays. Triumph Corporate told me that at most the part(s) would only take 2 days to arrive, and the bike could be repaired immediately thereafter, but the process must begin with the dealership. The tachometer problem was scripted the same way, with the dealer taking forever (about a month) to make a warranty claim. Turns out Dave's advice was right on; the dealership is a huge part of what's causing me such frustration. Ugggggggg!
I'll add that the dealership JUST responded to an email containing much of what's in the first paragraph, and informed me that even though they've had the bike for two weeks, they have yet to determine what part needs to be replaced. I believe the right word is incompetence.
Brad
I'll add that the dealership JUST responded to an email containing much of what's in the first paragraph, and informed me that even though they've had the bike for two weeks, they have yet to determine what part needs to be replaced. I believe the right word is incompetence.
Brad
Mae Lyne has a doctors appointment today for more nerve block injections. Since she cannot drive after the session I have to take her and that will tie up this afternoon. I would love to meet you Wednesday and maybe Steve can join us. Name the time and place and I will be there. Looking forward to shaking your hand.
In defense of the dealership, electrical problems are difficult. However, that is no excuse for poor customer service. The email you received from the dealership indicates that Triumph North America contacted them. Unfortunately, there is no Triumph dealership close by that I trust. If I had a new Triumph under warranty, I would take mine to Ft Myers. I know the mechanic there and I trust him completely. I have an independent shop in Ocala to do the work I cannot do myself. I will use the local dealer for such things as tires, chains, etc; but anything beyond routines services, which I do myself, goes to Ocala.
Carl,
There's a great deal of truth in what you've written about electrical problems. And so you know, my biggest beef is that the dealership service manager told me last week that they diagnosed the problem and just needed the part. Today, he's telling me something different.
And no sweat on tomorrow. I'd rather you tend to Mae Lyne and we'll meet when you've got more time (maybe when I've got my bike back and Steve's been given enough notice to join us). Might be cool to meet-up in Altamonte and ride over his way for a cool beverage, maybe on a weekend afternoon. :y18: Given he's Brittish, maybe he'll know of a good cricket or English football sports bar?
Until then, I'll be praying for Mae Lyne and whatever pain/discomfort she's going through.
Brad
There's a great deal of truth in what you've written about electrical problems. And so you know, my biggest beef is that the dealership service manager told me last week that they diagnosed the problem and just needed the part. Today, he's telling me something different.
And no sweat on tomorrow. I'd rather you tend to Mae Lyne and we'll meet when you've got more time (maybe when I've got my bike back and Steve's been given enough notice to join us). Might be cool to meet-up in Altamonte and ride over his way for a cool beverage, maybe on a weekend afternoon. :y18: Given he's Brittish, maybe he'll know of a good cricket or English football sports bar?
Until then, I'll be praying for Mae Lyne and whatever pain/discomfort she's going through.
Brad
If you want to meet tomorrow, Wednesday, just let me know. Mae Lyne's appointment is this afternoon. At this moment the only thing I have to do tomorrow is renew the tag on my pickup. I was supposed to do that NLT Dec 31.
Hey Carl,
No sweat on tomorrow. A "lady friend" has invited me to dinner. I delayed responding because she told me she wanted to spend some time with me. She's been on the Speedmaster once riding through old Sanford, and she made me promise not to go over 35 mph. Yet strangely, she wants to skydive. I'm trying to convince her that's just a tad faster.
Nevertheless, I'm determined to meet you soon, and hopefully with my Speedy operational!
I've got your number, and I'll be calling soon. And thanks for the offer of the trailer and the mechanic advise. I may have to look into getting a pro-rated refund on my service plan and switching to your mechanic. These Orlando guys are not impressive thus far.
Brad
No sweat on tomorrow. A "lady friend" has invited me to dinner. I delayed responding because she told me she wanted to spend some time with me. She's been on the Speedmaster once riding through old Sanford, and she made me promise not to go over 35 mph. Yet strangely, she wants to skydive. I'm trying to convince her that's just a tad faster.
Nevertheless, I'm determined to meet you soon, and hopefully with my Speedy operational!
I've got your number, and I'll be calling soon. And thanks for the offer of the trailer and the mechanic advise. I may have to look into getting a pro-rated refund on my service plan and switching to your mechanic. These Orlando guys are not impressive thus far.
Brad
Anytime, my friend.
Quick update: Dealership manager stated the faulty part is a changeover relay, and will arrive on Friday. They state they can start it everytime bypassing the relay, so it stands to reason the fix will be a good one (I hope).
Should the bike return is good working order, I'll let you know so we can bring a close to this dreadful thread!
Brad
Should the bike return is good working order, I'll let you know so we can bring a close to this dreadful thread!
Brad
